Leona M. Knox was born on October 30, 1939, in Denver, Colorado, to Geneva Wilson and David Thomas. She grew up alongside her five sisters—Eileen, Shirley, Cheryl, Valerie, and Pam. Together they shared a close bond, enjoying singing, attending church events, and spending quality time as a family.
Leona attended and graduated from Manuel High School. She carried the friendships and values from those early years with her throughout her life.
In 1961, Leona met Rufus Knox, and the two later married. Together they built a loving family and enjoyed traveling between Denver, Colorado and Smithdale, Mississippi. From their union came four children: Kenneth, Deneen, Dennis, and Keith.

Leona worked for over 30 years at Prudential Financial, where her dedication and hard work allowed her to travel to various places throughout her career.
Leona shared a lifelong friendship with Doris Todd and her best friend Frances Lewis. The two enjoyed bowling together and were proud members of a bowling team known as "The Strikettes."

She had a deep love for family and cherished every opportunity to spend time with those closest to her. In her free time, she enjoyed bowling, visiting casinos, singing, and dancing. She was also a devoted fan of her hometown teams—the Colorado Rockies, Denver Broncos, and Denver Nuggets.

Music was also a special part of Leona's life. She was a member of the singing group "The Deltones," alongside her sisters Eileen and Shirley, and Lorene. Their harmonies and shared love of music brought joy to many.

Leona touched countless lives with her wisdom, humor, and unwavering perseverance. As the beloved matriarch of her family, she provided strength, guidance, and love that will continue to inspire generations.

Her legacy of faith, family, music, and resilience will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

She is preceded in death by her son Kenneth Knox Sr. She is survived by her husband Rufus Knox, daughter Deneen Knox and sons Dennis and Keith Knox. Her grandchildren are Kenneth Knox Jr, Quincel (Shante) and Shanise Knox, Brittany, Channyn, Jasmine, Dejai Knox, Kevon Knox, Diamond and D'naeya Sykes and Durelle Watley-Knox. She has 25 great grandchildren.